Bafana Solomon Matea, a talented dancer and choreographer, hails from Gauteng, South Africa. His journey in dance began at Pro Arte Alphen Park High School in Pretoria, where he rigorously trained in the Vaganova and Cecchetti techniques, laying a strong foundation for his future in the world of dance. Bafana's career took a significant leap forward when he joined Ballet Hispanico in New York City. This period allowed him to immerse himself in diverse dance cultures and gain invaluable experience on the stage.

His passion for dance and education led him to work with the Battery Dance Company, where he played a pivotal role in their educational programs. Bafana worked extensively throughout Europe as a dance practitioner, engaging with schoolchildren and teenagers in a transformative project called "Dancing to Connect." This initiative used dance as a means of bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding among young people from different backgrounds.

Bafana’s commitment to dance extends beyond performance; he is also a co-founder of Juxtapower, a South African song and dance organization. In his role as rehearsal director and choreographer, he has been instrumental in shaping the creative direction of the organization.

Since relocating to the UK eight years ago, Bafana has continued to share his passion and talent with the dance community. He has worked with established dance companies such as Tavaziva, BOP Jazz Theatre Company, and State of Emergency, where he served as a choreographer for the critically acclaimed dance project "Where Is Home."

Bafana Solomon Matea is a respected Freelance Dance Practitioner, Choreographer, and teacher, specializing in Contemporary and African Jazz Fusion Dance. His influence in the dance world is profound, and he continues to inspire the next generation of dancers through his teaching roles at prestigious institutions, including Bird College, Wilkes Academy, and White Lodge UK. His journey reflects a deep commitment to the art of dance, as well as a dedication to using dance as a tool for education, cultural exchange, and artistic expression.

https://www.jazztheatreartsuk.org/jtauk-team